A Look at Far Cry 2
By: Eric M. Martin |
Tuesday October 21, 2008 |
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Ubisoft’s sequel to an award-winning PC game may bring more than what gamers bargain for. |
| This Tuesday, Ubisoft will have shipped Far Cry 2 for the PlayStation 3, XBox 360 and PC. Thee days later, the title will arrive in Europe. No doubt, this is somewhat of a perk for both regions since Ubisoft’s Montreal division is responsible for this title’s development. So many have been talking about this game since its announcement, and it’s quite clear that the anticipation level is at an all-time high, considering the popularity of its predecessor. To that end, Static Multimedia is giving you a look at what to expect within the next 48 hours. It’s three against one as you are sent to hunt down an arms dealer known as “The Jackal.” In effect, “The Jackal” has turned one side against the other as an internal conflict in the lands of Africa has once again risen due to his influence. Not only are your orders to find and terminate “The Jackal”, but you must take care against the two opposing groups as well. In short, do what you feel is necessary to complete your mission. Whether your actions are diplomatic or domineering is your choice. The story will develop in real time based on your actions and choices. The Dunia Engine is Ubisoft Montreal’s big brainchild behind Far Cry 2. They have created their own engine that will be largely responsible for many of the game’s environmental factors. Particle effects will be playing a large role with the integration of fire effects generated by explosions on both manmade objects, environmental terrain, even character models. On a more ambient note, tropical rain storms and wind effects on long grasses will also be calculated to fir the current situation. To add that special touch, there is also a real-time daily cycle which will simulate a twenty-four hour progression. For those with more “hands-on” environment alteration tendencies, the Dunia Engine will comply with its own take on realistic destruction physics. Finally, we come to the always imitated, seldom duplicated offering of non-scripted enemy A.I. Personally, m y attention will be fixed upon the animal model patterns of the model wildlife and their reactions to things such as gunfire, explosions, weather and human proximity. Quoting the Far Cry 2 website, “The extensive artistic research combined with the next-gen engine will allow you to explore over 50Km2 of seamlessly rendered African landscape. No game has ever provided such freedom of movement!” It sounds impressive on the surface, but this is a pretty damnable statement. While there is no apprehension to the fact that Ubisoft is a high-quality company and has the resources available to back up its claims, there are too many “big world games” out there. Grand Theft Auto IV was boasting about downloadable expansions to the city, Mass Effect had several locations for exploration, even the mall in Dead Rising was huge. Granted, although Dead Rising was incredibly limited in comparison, the point remains valid. I’m not saying that there won’t be a big playground, I’m just not convinced that it’s the biggest to date. All of that said, anything goes with Far Cry 2, appearing on store shelves on Tuesday. Those who are waiting have already reserved their copies. See if you can limp in, but don’t be too slow. If you’re not faster than the slowest lion on the plains, consider yourself lunch. |
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